Easy Meatloaf Recipe 🍖🍞
This Easy Meatloaf is a classic comfort food that's simple to prepare and full of flavor. With ground beef, breadcrumbs, and a tangy ketchup topping, it's the perfect dish for a family dinner. The meatloaf is moist and tender on the inside, with just the right amount of seasoning. It's sure to become a staple in your recipe collection!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Ingredients:
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1 lb ground beef 🥩
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1 cup breadcrumbs 🍞
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1/2 cup onion, finely chopped 🧅
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1/2 cup milk 🥛
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1 egg 🥚
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1/4 cup ketchup 🍅
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1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce 🍶
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1 teaspoon garlic powder 🧄
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1 teaspoon salt 🧂
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1/2 teaspoon black pepper ⚫
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1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional) 🌿
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Additional ketchup for topping (optional) 🍅
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, milk, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and dried thyme (if using). Mix everything together with your hands or a spoon until well combined, but be careful not to overmix.
Step 3: Shape the Meatloaf Transfer the meat mixture into a loaf pan. Press it down gently to form a loaf shape, or shape it by hand if you prefer to place it on a baking sheet for a crisper crust.
Step 4: Add the Topping If you'd like, spread a little extra ketchup on top of the meatloaf before baking. This adds a delicious tangy glaze that caramelizes as it bakes.
Step 5: Bake the Meatloaf Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
Step 6: Let It Rest Once the meatloaf is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute and makes it easier to slice.
Step 7: Serve Slice the meatloaf and serve with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a simple salad. Enjoy!
Tips for Making the Best Easy Meatloaf:
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Add variety: You can add finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or celery to the mixture for extra flavor and texture.
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Moisture: If you prefer a more moist meatloaf, try adding a little more milk or some grated cheese to the mixture.
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Leftovers: Meatloaf is great for leftovers! You can use slices for sandwiches or wraps the next day.
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Spicy kick: If you like a little heat, add some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture.
Who Would Enjoy This Dish?
This Easy Meatloaf is perfect for families, anyone looking for a quick and hearty dinner, or those who want a comforting classic. It's easy to make, satisfying, and always a crowd-pleaser.
Nutritional Benefits:
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Protein: Ground beef is a great source of protein, which is important for muscle building and overall health.
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Vitamins and Minerals: The onion adds flavor and provides some essential vitamins like vitamin C, while the thyme adds antioxidants.
Enjoy this easy and flavorful meatloaf that’s sure to become a favorite in your home!